Be honest, Redlands residents, when do you think about your dentist or your dental health? If you’re like most patients, you think about your dentist when you’re on your way to your twice a year checkup or when you have pain your mouth. In many ways dental care is so second nature to us, that we rarely give it a thought.
Brushing and flossing are absolutely vital to preventing cavities and gum disease. However, there’s a little bit more to it. Dr. Terry Vines of Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry believes that proper care of dental patients includes more than examining your teeth and gums, it’s also about getting to know the patient as a person. By understanding your oral health history, providing education about oral care, and demonstrating proper techniques, Dr. Vines can help you avoid dental problems. Preventative dentistry is as important to your oral health as proper diet and exercise are to your overall health. Proper oral health care all the time can keep you from needing restorative care in the future. Preventative dentistry is made up of at-home care and visits to your dentist’s office. At home, you should have the proper habits and oral care routine. Brush after each meal, or at least twice daily; floss every day; eat healthy and avoid sugary foods and drinks; and steer clear of habits such as smoking, using tobacco products, or biting on hard items.
It’s also important to maintain regular checkups. In addition to Dr. Vines’ exam of your mouth, you will receive a professional cleaning by one of his friendly hygienists. This cleaning is necessary because the hygienists can use professional tools that allow them to remove plaque and bacteria from areas of the teeth and mouth that you simply cannot reach with a toothbrush or floss.
Combining at-home and in-office dental care throughout your lifetime can help to prevent oral health issues such as gum disease, cavities, bad breath, or excessive wear on the enamel. The earlier a potential problem is spotted the sooner it can be treated. Typically, treating a problem in the early stages is easier, less painful, and less expensive than treating it later. Don’t put off your next dental appointment, call the office of Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry today.